noun

altercation

awl-tuh-KAYSHN

Altercation (noun) means a noisy or angry argument, often in public. Example: “Witnesses described a loud altercation outside the bar.”

noun

A noisy or angry argument, often in public.

"Witnesses described a loud altercation outside the bar."

"The two drivers got into a heated altercation after the crash."

How to use altercation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA sharp, angry exchange of words — a row or shouting match.

When to use it

Fairly formal; often used in news reports and legal contexts rather than casual speech.

Common pairings

a heated altercation get into an altercation physical altercation

altercations plural

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Can you complete this real example?

Witnesses described a loud _____ outside the bar.

Borrowed from Latin altercatio, a term for a heated verbal dispute.

Origin: Latin

fracas affray

fight brawl fray commotion affray fracas quash ruffle

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What does “altercation” mean?

The word “altercation” means a noisy or angry argument, often in public. In plain terms, a sharp, angry exchange of words — a row or shouting match.

How do you pronounce “altercation”?

“Altercation” is pronounced awl-tuh-KAYSHN (/ˌɔltɚˈkeɪʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “altercation” in a sentence?

Here is “altercation” used in a sentence: “Witnesses described a loud altercation outside the bar.”

What part of speech is “altercation”?

“Altercation” is a noun.

Where does the word “altercation” come from?

The word “altercation” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin altercatio, a term for a heated verbal dispute.

Vocabulary lists that include altercation:

fight brawl fray commotion affray fracas quash ruffle